The Knot’s 2009 wedding predictions

The Knot have kindly shared with us their top predictions for 2009 from what brides will be wearing to the technology they’ll be using and even cash-saving ideas. We’ve added what we think too!

1. Announcing your engagement on Facebook
In 2009, new technologies will help couples save money and reinvent the wedding etiquette landscape: from getting the wedding word out via Facebook to Twittering their potential dresses to polling guests on menu choices and music playlists on their wedding web pages, plus allowing guests to RSVP online.

We say: Facebook is the new personal website, just don’t forget older relatives don’t even know what it is and some of your friends still aren’t on there. You can see bridalwave’s page here.

2. Do-it-yourself wedding details
The spend-savvy bride is the smart bride. The crafty bride is even smarter. Using amazing resources all over the Internet, brides are making their own favors, bouquets, save-the-dates, wedding programs, seating charts and more. And when they can’t DIY, they head to Etsy.com for deals from other DIYers.

3. Airy ball gowns will be big
When it comes to wedding dresses, big ball gowns will be all the rage. The key to this style? The right fabric: layers of tulle for summer, satin for spring and fall, and ultra-soft suede for a wintertime wedding. Also hot for ’09 fashion: sexy open backs, one-shoulder necklines and bubble veils. Brides on a budget will sign up for designer sample sales online.

4. Retro-beauty: Modern beehives and Priscilla Presley eyes
For hair, brides will opt for sweeping, “undone” updos (a modern spin on the beehive). Dewy wedding makeup will emphasize the eyes with lash extensions and a little eyeliner. Friends’ veils and headpieces will be the top “something borrowed” for the season–another style-savvy way to save!

5. Green weddings are glamorous (and more affordable)
Staying in season for food and flowers. Internet (paper-free) invitations. Having your ceremony and reception in the same location. These wedding trends are not only eco-chic, they’re also easier on the budget. Check out TheKnot.com/greenweddings for tips and trends.

We say: One of the hottest trends. Check out seasonal menus, recycling facilities at your venue and even eco fabrics for your dress with our green guides.

7. Small, romantic ceremonies
Up the romance and drop the tab: Have your ceremony with only your nearest and dearest and save your money for the reception. In New York? Hop over to City Hall (it just got a swank makeover) where you can tie the knot for $60 (including the $35 marriage license fee). Throw a raucous yet less-expensive-than-a-full-blown-reception cocktail party later in the year.

8. Gaming your wedding
From Wii tournaments to Rock Band lounges, interactive hi-tech games will be a fresh (free) entertainment addition at receptions, engagement parties and after-parties.

We say: Not only your wedding but check out ideas for video games for your hen night too. Make sure you have lots of canapes and cupcakes to hand for a fun do.

9. Vintage wedding cakes
Dessert alert! Save some cash on your catering bill by skipping the dessert course and eating your cake. Roll out an old-fashioned, sweet, three-tiered buttercream wedding cake crowned with a vintage topper. Looking for a wedding cake topper on a dime? Find one on eBay or borrow your grandparents’ to make it extra memorable.

We say: Serving cake as dessert is a tried-and-tested trend that can help you save cash.

10. Home front Honeymoons
Make like JFK and Jackie O who honeymooned in Santa Barbara’s exclusive San Ysidro Ranch: Skip the far-flung destinations and sequester yourselves in a honeymoon-worthy domestic locale. Take in five-star stateside cuisine and scenery–from the romantic wineries in Sonoma County, California, to the hot boutique hotels of South Beach, Florida, to a cozy lodge with a stunning view in Juneau, Alaska.

We say: The UK has some of the most dramatic scenery around. Head to Cornwall for palm trees and surfing, the Lake District for quaint cottages, sailing and amazing scenery or take a city break to London for the latest West End shows and fine dining.